Causes of Acidity
The following are the causes of acidity:
Diet and Eating Habits
Certain foods can trigger acidity by increasing the production of stomach acid or weakening the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve that prevents acid reflux. These foods include spicy, fatty, and acidic foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated beverages. Eating large meals or consuming heavy meals close to bedtime can also worsen the acidity symptoms.
Lifestyle Factors
- Stress: Psychological stress can contribute to acidity by triggering the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can increase stomach acid production.
- Lack of Sleep: Inadequate sleep or irregular sleep patterns can disrupt the body’s natural processes, including digestion, leading to imbalances in stomach acid levels and increasing acidity symptoms.
Certain Medications
Some medications can irritate the stomach lining or increase stomach acid production, leading to acidity symptoms. Examples include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen, certain antibiotics, corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, and potassium supplements.
Medical Conditions
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is a chronic condition characterized by frequent acid reflux, often due to a weakened LES or other anatomical abnormalities. It can lead to severe symptoms of acidity, including chronic heartburn, regurgitation, and esophageal damage if left untreated.
- Peptic Ulcers: Peptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus due to factors such as infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria, excessive use of NSAIDs, or excessive alcohol consumption. Peptic ulcers can cause acidity symptoms such as burning abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Acidity
Acidity, also known as acid reflux or heartburn, is a common condition characterized by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Normally, a lower esophageal sphincter (LES) valve prevents this acid reflux but its malfunctioning causes acidity. In this article, we will look into the acidity causes, symptoms, and treatment of acidity.
Table of Content
- What is Acidity?
- Causes of Acidity
- Symptoms of Acidity
- Treatment of Acidity
- Prevention of Acidity
- Conclusion – Acidity – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
- FAQs on Acidity – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
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